Hurricane Irma: What to expect on Delmarva

With Hurricane Irma roaring through the Caribbean and headed toward Florida, it's clear the storm has no intent of stopping soon. 

Currently for the U.S., the super storm is set to have the biggest impact on Florida, Georgia and the South Carolina coast, said Alec Butner, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Wakefield, Virginia. However, it is uncertain exactly what it could bring to the Mid-Atlantic region. 

For the Delmarva area, Butner said to possibly expect 1-2 inches of rainfall starting late Monday, Sept. 11 through early Wednesday, Sept. 13. Winds could reach 30-40 mph and low-end tropical storm gusts are possible. 

Residents should make an inclement weather plan ahead of time just in case of a change of forecast. The Worcester County Humane Society posted on its Facebook page that due to "the uncertainty of Hurricane Irma's path, we are busy making hurricane evacuation plans so all our our animals remain safe." The society is suspending its animal intake until otherwise stated, according to the Facebook post. 

On Thursday, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan urged residents to complete an emergency preparedness checklist to prepare for possible severe weather. 

Items on the checklist include having a three-day supply of nonperishable food and a gallon of water per person per day.

In Delaware, emergency management officials reminded residents to have emergency kits ready and evacuation plans in place if they live in flood-prone areas.

Officials from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia said they are planning to hold a conference call on Friday to discuss storm preparations further. 

On Sept. 6, the Maryland Department of Agriculture told residents to keep their pets and livestock in mind with hurricane plans. According to the website, households with pets should make an evacuation plan as many shelters do not accept animals. Owners should also make sure pets are up-to-date with vaccinations and veterinary visits. 

When evacuating with pets, owners should create a kit including vet records, a collar with identification and three days' supply of food, water, and medication. Other items include toys and a photo of your pet, according to the website. 

Butner said the current forecast shows the storm's path heading toward western Virginia and the Appalachian region, but those in that area don't need to worry about anything close to a Category 4 or 5 hurricane.

"It will be quickly diminishing," he said. 

By the time the storm makes its Virginia landfall, it could quickly be reduced to a Category 1 hurricane, tropical storm or tropical depression.  

However, like with all early forecasts, Butner warns the Mid-Atlantic region to stay alert. 

"(It's) subject to change," he said. 

On Twitter: @The_MegRyan